Dose Dependent Effects of Gamma Radiation on LH and cAMP Stimulated Steroidogenesis in Cultured Human Leydig Cells

Therapeutic or experimental radiation exposure is known to impair testicular Leydig cell function. However, the molecular mechanisms that underlie such effects are largely unknown. Our previous study demonstrated that higher doses of gamma radiation impair basal and LH-stimulated cAMP production. The present study deals with the dose dependent effects of gamma radiation on LH and cAMP stimulated steroidogenesis in human Leydig cells. Testicles removed from advanced prostatic carcinoma patients, who do not have any endocrine or metabolic disorders known to affect the testicular functions were used in the present study. Prior to orchidectomy, serum hormones such as FSH, LH, testosterone and estradiol were assayed to evaluate the testicular functions.